Just last season, it seemed like the Golden State Warriors had found Klay Thompson’s successor in the NBA Draft.
Brandin Podziemski hit the ground running right out of the gate.
He looked poised and ready for the league and always found a way to make an impact regardless of whether he was starting or coming off the bench.
There were high expectations for him ahead of his sophomore season, especially because Thompson was no longer in town.
So far, he has failed to live up to those expectations and may have reached a new low in the loss to the Denver Nuggets.
Podziemski struggled all night long, especially on defense.
Following the loss, coach Kerr put him on blast for his decision-making and fouling (via Anthony Slater):
“He can not be that guy. He can’t foul jump shooters. I love Brandin. Hell of a player. Hell of a future. But I hope he watches this clip because he needs to hear it,” he said.
Steve Kerr critical of Brandin Podziemski’s decision making tonight vs Nuggets: “He can not be that guy. He can’t foul jump shooters. I love Brandin. Hell of a player. Hell of a future. But I hope he watches this clip because he needs to hear it.” pic.twitter.com/mMOXkd56Ui
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 4, 2024
Granted, some of his struggles might also be due to Kerr’s rotations.
It’s hard to find a rhythm when the lineup constantly changes, and it seemed like Podziemski had already established himself as a starter.
So far, the second-year pro has posted averages of 8.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game on 39% from the floor.
Stephen Curry is dealing with a chronic knee issue and hasn’t been his usual explosive self this season.
The Warriors have now dropped five games in a row, and while some of the losses have been close and they’ve looked fairly more competitive this season, they need all hands on deck now.
Podziemski has the talent to recover, but he is currently feeling the pressure.
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